Library story time features fair housing rights

April 11 marked the 45th anniversary of the federal Fair Housing Act

In the children’s book, “A Pig Is Moving In!”, Henrietta Hen, Nick Hare and Doctor Fox are distraught to learn an ill-reputed mammal is taking up residence into their building.

Pigs are dirty and messy, and why would this pig be any exception?

As the trio learns, though, there is much more to characters than meets the eye, and a pig can be a wonderful neighbor.

The Fair Housing Council of Oregon and Cleveland High School drama students partnered for a story time presentation at the Troutdale Library about fair housing rights Thursday, April 11.

During the story time, Cleveland High juniors Brookelin McKay and Eleanor Herreid-O’Neill read to 12 children and their families, offering equal housing coloring books and playdough afterward.

April is Fair Housing Month and the 45th anniversary of the signing of the federal Fair Housing Act that protects civil rights in housing.

In honor of the anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, signed into law April 11, 1968, a variety of library readings are being held throughout the area.

“I’d never heard of Fair Housing Month, but I think it’s so good there’s a place focused on fair housing rights,” Joy Lunneborg, a parent, said. “It’s good people have a place they can go when they’ve been discriminated against.”

Rayven Settler, intake specialist with the Fair Housing Council of Oregon was available to speak with families after the event and offered resources from the council.

While Mandy Fantroy said her family had never experienced housing discrimination, she appreciated the premise of the event.

“I love that they’re raising awareness in the community,” she said.

Jane Ferguson, drama teacher at Cleveland High School, said the partnership between the school and council not only allowed her students to bring awareness to housing rights, but to learn the history of housing rights in Oregon and prepare for the housing market when they head off to college.

As part of their studies on fair housing, Cleveland students will watch the response play to Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun,” Bruce Norris’ “Clybourne Park.”

For more information, visit fhco.org or email dhess@fhco.org.